Real estate deal on agenda in Laconia

When it meets this evening, the City Council will have the opportunity to make an unbelievable real estate purchase for just $1.

That's the price the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is asking for the 3-family dwelling at 171 Gilford Ave.

The Federal Housing Authority, which is a part of HUD, foreclosed on the property in July 2007 and through its Dollar Homes program, recently offered it to the city.

The City Council will vote to reaffirm the city manager's authority to sign all the paperwork related to the purchase of 171 Gilford Ave. which is a vacant 2,888-square-foot structure located on 0.47 acres of land. The property was assessed by the city at $210,900.

It's unlikely that the property will be put to a municipal use; instead it's more likely that the city — per the Dollar Homes program guidelines — will sell it to a low- or moderate-income buyer.

According to HUD, "The newly occupied homes can then act as catalysts for neighborhood revitalization, attracting new residents and businesses to an area."

In other business, the council will consider a request to allow the Laconia Farmers Market to use the City Hall parking lot every Saturday from June 28 through October, for the sale of homegrown fruits and vegetables.

Additionally, the council will consider the request by the Lakeport Community Association to raise funds on city property during Bike Week and for a temporary traffic order for the 27th annual Winni Derby.

The council, which meets at 7:30 p.m. in Room 200A at City Hall, will also set a date for a public hearing on the proposed 2008-2009 municipal budget.